Cincinnati is a scenic town, complete with a stunning skyline and several hilltop views. But if you’re looking to escape the traffic and hectic nature of the city limits, these laid-back drives near Cincinnati are worth a try. They all offer unique views, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities to stop and learn more about the charm and history of our beloved city.
- US-52 - Cincinnati to Ripley
Facebook/Village of Ripley Brown County Ohio Follow US-52 from Kellogg Avenue along a picturesque route that takes you to historic Ripley, Ohio. This favorite drive keeps you right next to the Ohio River and there are plenty of places to stop and explore beautiful views, historic sites, and tasty treats.
- Cliff Road
TripAdvisor/RyanSchweitzer Head to the William Henry Harrison Memorial at the corner of Brower Road and Cliff Road in North Bend. After enjoying the views and the history at the memorial, head down Cliff Road for more lovely views of the Ohio River and the surroundings. You’ll end up at Shawnee Lookout, which provides even more opportunity to explore this beautiful area, minutes from Cincinnati.
- Indiana 56 - Aurora to Rising Sun
Flickr/Jonathan Parrish Cross the border into Indiana and begin your drive in the small town of Aurora. Check out the George Street Bridge and then head on to IN-56. This picturesque road runs along the Ohio River and will take you into Rising Sun. If you want to keep going, follow IN-156 for more waterfront views.
- 536 to Rabbit Hash
Facebook/The Rabbit Hash General Store Take 75/71 South to Union and get off at 536 to check out one of the best drives in Northern Kentucky. Turn right when you get off the highway and follow the signs to historic Rabbit Hash. It can get crowded, but it’s popular for a good reason. It’s a lovely country drive that ends in a vibrant community with a classic General Store.
- River Road - on both sides of the river
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM This loop will take you through our city in the most unique way. Start downtown and head down 50W, which becomes River Road. Take it to the Anderson Ferry and then hop on for beautiful views of the river and both the west side and northern Kentucky. When you get off, turn left and take River Road (KY 8) all the way back to Covington.
- The Backroads from Ross to Oxford
Facebook/Burwinkel Farms What’s a good drive in Ohio without a view of cornfields? Head to Ross and, while you’re there, stop in at Burwinkel Farms for some fresh produce. Then hop on Layhigh Road. Take that to 748 (Millville Shandon) and turn right. Make a left on 129 and then a right onto 732 to end up right next to uptown Oxford. This classic Ohio drive will give you a taste of both country roads and small town charm.
Did we include your favorite scenic drive near Cincinnati? Which ones did we miss? Share your thoughts with us in the comments so we can check those out next!
Facebook/Village of Ripley Brown County Ohio
Follow US-52 from Kellogg Avenue along a picturesque route that takes you to historic Ripley, Ohio. This favorite drive keeps you right next to the Ohio River and there are plenty of places to stop and explore beautiful views, historic sites, and tasty treats.
TripAdvisor/RyanSchweitzer
Head to the William Henry Harrison Memorial at the corner of Brower Road and Cliff Road in North Bend. After enjoying the views and the history at the memorial, head down Cliff Road for more lovely views of the Ohio River and the surroundings. You’ll end up at Shawnee Lookout, which provides even more opportunity to explore this beautiful area, minutes from Cincinnati.
Flickr/Jonathan Parrish
Cross the border into Indiana and begin your drive in the small town of Aurora. Check out the George Street Bridge and then head on to IN-56. This picturesque road runs along the Ohio River and will take you into Rising Sun. If you want to keep going, follow IN-156 for more waterfront views.
Facebook/The Rabbit Hash General Store
Take 75/71 South to Union and get off at 536 to check out one of the best drives in Northern Kentucky. Turn right when you get off the highway and follow the signs to historic Rabbit Hash. It can get crowded, but it’s popular for a good reason. It’s a lovely country drive that ends in a vibrant community with a classic General Store.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
This loop will take you through our city in the most unique way. Start downtown and head down 50W, which becomes River Road. Take it to the Anderson Ferry and then hop on for beautiful views of the river and both the west side and northern Kentucky. When you get off, turn left and take River Road (KY 8) all the way back to Covington.
Facebook/Burwinkel Farms
What’s a good drive in Ohio without a view of cornfields? Head to Ross and, while you’re there, stop in at Burwinkel Farms for some fresh produce. Then hop on Layhigh Road. Take that to 748 (Millville Shandon) and turn right. Make a left on 129 and then a right onto 732 to end up right next to uptown Oxford. This classic Ohio drive will give you a taste of both country roads and small town charm.
For more scenic drives in the Tristate area, check out our recent articles here:
Ohio Backroads
Kentucky Backroads
Indiana Scenic Drives
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